Nicaraguans go on strike to protest Ortega's grip on power

The streets of Managua are deserted as residents observe a national strike called by opponents of the government.

14 Jun 2018 20:00 GMT

A woman embraces her son who was released by police in Managua on June 13 [Reuters/Oswaldo Rivas]

Nicaragua's capital Managua has taken on the airs of a ghost town, as a day-long national strike is being held to protest two months of violent chaos under President Daniel Ortega.

"This is a ... peaceful civil strike that covers ... all economic activities, except those related to the preservation of life and the coverage of basic services for the population," announced the National Alliance for Justice and Democracy, a key player in the stalled crisis talks.

On Thursday, commerce stood still as shops, banks and eateries across the country closed for the "peaceful" strike ending at midnight.